Safe Removal.
This procedure ensures safe removal and thoughtful reshaping
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. Whether for comfort, health, or lifestyle, Dr. Soma performs safe explant surgery to restore natural proportions and peace of mind.
What Is Breast Implant Removal?
Also known as explant surgery, this procedure removes one or both breast implants. Depending on the condition of the implant and the surrounding capsule (the natural scar tissue layer the body forms), the surgery is tailored to your specific needs.
A safe plan starts with a proper assessment, not assumptions. Dr. Soma evaluates breast tissue, implant type, and capsule condition to determine if you need:
- Implant removal only
- Partial or Total Capsulectomy
- En bloc capsulectomy (when appropriate)
- Explant with Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Common Reasons for Removal
Understanding the "Capsule"
A capsule is a scar tissue layer that naturally forms around any implant. It is normal. However, problems occur when it thickens, tightens, or becomes inflamed. Not every patient needs a full capsulectomy, but specific conditions like contracture or calcification require it.
Capsular contracture causes tightness, pain, or distortion due to a shrinking capsule
Calcification refers to hard deposits that can form in long-standing implants
Management involves deciding between partial, total, or en bloc removal based on safety
Options After Removal
Explant is not one-size-fits-all. Dr. Soma will recommend the most suitable option based on your tissue quality and goals.
Implant Removal Only
Best for patients with good natural tissue and minimal sagging. The natural breast will settle over time.
This option results in minimal scarringRemoval + Capsulectomy
Recommended when the capsule is thick, painful, or abnormal. Improves comfort and tissue mobility.
This approach is health-focusedImplant Exchange
Remove old implants and replace with new ones to adjust size, fix asymmetry, or correct malposition.
This procedure updates and refreshes breast appearanceRemoval + Fat Transfer
Uses your own fat to add modest volume and softness without new implants.
This option provides 100% natural resultsExplant with Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Best if sagging or loose skin is expected after removal. This creates a more youthful breast position by repositioning the nipple and tightening the skin envelope.
- This procedure improves firmness
- This procedure fixes nipple position
Procedure Comparison
Removes Implants
Adds Volume
Improves Sagging
Fixes Contracture
Recovery Timeline
Typical healing process for standard explant surgery.
Immediate
- A support bra is applied
- Mild soreness and tightness occur
- Walking is encouraged
Week 1-2
- Swelling peaks and then drops
- Bruising improves
- Patients resume desk work
Week 4-6
- Patients resume light exercise
- Breasts feel softer
- Scar care begins
Month 3-6
- The contour stabilizes
- Scars fade progressively
- The final shape becomes visible
Scientific Evidence & Clinical Standards
Discusses removal for complications like rupture and contracture, emphasizing individualized planning.
Outlines that implants are not lifetime devices and explains the assessment process for complications.
Clinical literature on capsulectomy techniques, rupture management, and post-explant reshaping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Capsulectomy is recommended when the capsule is thick, tight, painful, or abnormal. If the tissue is healthy and thin, simple removal may suffice. Dr. Soma will advise you based on safety.
Sagging depends on your skin elasticity and how large the implants were. If significant sagging is expected, a breast lift (mastopexy) can be performed simultaneously to reshape the breast.
Most patients describe the pain as mild to moderate, often less than the original augmentation. Tightness is common in the first week. Oral medication is usually sufficient.
Yes. This is called an Implant Exchange. It allows you to downsize while maintaining some fullness. Pocket repair may be needed to ensure the smaller implant sits correctly.
Desk work is often possible within 1-2 weeks. Full physical activity typically resumes after 4-6 weeks with guidance.
Drains are used only in selected cases, depending on the complexity of the capsulectomy and individual factors.
Yes, implant exchange is an option if desired. This can be discussed during your consultation.
Yes. Once removed, implants are gone unless you choose to have new ones placed in a future procedure.
Pricing Factors
Costs vary based on complexity. Key factors include:
- Capsulectomy requirement
- Need for Lift or Fat Transfer
- Operating theatre time
- Implant placement (Over/Under muscle)
“My capsular contracture pain is gone. The whole process felt safe and professional.”
— Yvonne, 39
Ready for a Change?
Dr. Soma combines medical precision with aesthetic judgement to ensure your explant journey is safe, comfortable, and results in a natural look.